Gov.uk loses 2 top techies, needs some new ones

The government's second-in-command techie is leaving this month for a job with storage giant EMC.

Bill McCluggage held the post of deputy government chief information officer (CIO) at the Cabinet Office for three years, before announcing his decision to move in November. He will start his new job at EMC UK on 1 February.

His post at the heart of tech in government hasn't yet been filled.

Announcing his departure, McCluggage said that he was satisfied with his contribution to government computing: namely putting out the new strategy and implementation plan for government ICT. He said that the plan will "ensure a modern, fit-for-purpose and cost effective ICT structure which supports public service delivery to a higher standard and gives value for money for the taxpayer".

In other government news, the Department for Work and Pensions is advertising for the role of IT Director General, to replace the retiring Joe Harley, who is also leaving in the next few months. The chosen candidate would sit at the head of a departmental team of 1,500, and the post requires a "track record of leading large-scale change" and "communication skills of the highest order".

"This is one of the most influential roles in IT in the UK and will require the highest levels of skills and experience to undertake it", reads the job description.

Harley's CIO role has already been filled by Andy Nelson.

With two big names out, we're still waiting to see what high-level talent gov.uk can draw in. ®